When you think simple understated elegance, and you combine that with quality and excellence, you get the Patek Philippe Calatrava Ref. 6006G Watch. The brand crafted this design originally in 1991 with the Ref. 5000 and surprised everyone with sales and style. While inspired by the previous timepiece, the release of the Ref 6000 in 2005 took the next step in functionality adding a radial date display, and increased the size to 37mm. These successes brought us to the beautiful new watch that graces this collection today.
The new piece is larger than it’s predessor by 2mm, showcasing a more modern 39mm diameter and really standing out on the wrist, projecting exquisite craftsmanship. Compensating for the larger size, the watch thickness is only 8.84mm, allowing for a classy and eyecatching masterpiece. The white gold case is suited perfectly for that tight cuff or sleeve as the domed bezel allows for ease of transition over the case and just screams amazing.
The Ref. 6006G truly stands apart from the other Calatrava pieces because of the dial design. Certainly this Patek Philippe collection is fueled by tradition and horological brilliance. Modern and contemporary dial design is a stand out for this piece, hosting a two-tone graphic base, striking Arabic numerals, an off-set seconds sub-dial, and inboard minute track. The red-lacquered arrow tipped hand is much more in line with the overall design and gives that added modern feel. The brand marquee is prominent in black, while it shimmers with the sunburst finish and contrasts the silvery minute track that is guilloched with such intricate details you can almost feel the two different textures.
When trying to discern the differences between the old and new designs you immediately reference the hour, minute and date hands. The new timepiece has enlarged hour and minute hands, but not overbearing, just enough to capture attention. The inside of the watch beats the Calibre 240 PSC, taking heart from the legendary Calibre 240, but optimized with the manufacturer’s patented Spiromax balance spring and signature free- sprung Gyromax balance. Winding the 191 part, 27-jewel movement is a 22 karat gold unidirectional micro rotor.
The Patek Philippe Calatrava Ref. 6006G opens the door for this collection taking it out of the shadows that it has lived in for so long. Sure there are more complicated pieces and some just as dazzling, but none that capture the essence of a dress watch like this one. Available in white gold currently and an alligator strap with an 18k clasp, it is aesthetically pleasing and has that formal feel,while still being festive and fun. So dress it up or dress it down, this pleasing design will capture your heart.
